My #1 Tip to get into an Ivy League University
- Cassandra Hsiao
- Feb 5, 2024
- 2 min read
In the ever-evolving landscape of college admissions, the idea of being a well-rounded student has shifted. Rather than seeking well-rounded individuals, colleges now aim for a well-rounded class. What does this mean for you? It means developing a spike – a specialization in 1 to 3 areas you're passionate about and genuinely excel in.
That was my secret sauce to getting into all 17 schools I applied to, including all eight Ivy League universities: I developed a spike in storytelling, focusing on poetry, playwriting, and journalism.
Here's where Malcolm Gladwell's 10,000 hour rule comes into play (it might seem crazy high, but you have a head start as a high school student!) While you may not reach 10,000 hours, dedicating significant time and energy to your spike is crucial. For me, it was honing my storytelling skills, and in the process, winning honors and awards.
Why are honors and awards important? This is a third-party validation of your dedication and skill. It proves to admissions officers you are not only dedicated to your spike, but that you are objectively good at it (aka your hard work has paid off)!
But what if there are no honors and awards to be won? For example, what if my basketball team sucks and we come in last every season? Or what if my school has a lack of resources?
The key is to make the most out of your situation. If your team is at the bottom, be the best within that context. Go for leadership positions—assistant coach, team captain. Innovate a new way of working out and keeping team morale high. If your school lacks clubs, create one — this demonstrates initiative, creativity, and perseverance.
Admissions officers consider your impact relative to your community. Starting a club or initiative and nurturing it over time reveals grit and determination.
Build your spike, put in the hours, earn recognition, demonstrate creativity. This is what will help you stand out! Remember, colleges want a well rounded class, not a well rounded individual.
And this advice isn't just for getting into college—it's what helped me build a deeply fulfilling and exciting life.
This is a great perspective on modern college admissions, especially the idea of building a strong “spike” rather than trying to do everything. Focusing on genuine passion, impact, and consistency really helps students stand out in a competitive Ivy League process. For students who go on to study abroad after securing top university admits, having the right guidance is just as important. Platforms like GraddingHomes support students with course and university selection and also help them find trusted student accommodation in Wolverhampton, making the transition to international education smoother and more manageable.
My #1 tip to get into an Ivy League university is to build a profile that shows consistent academic excellence combined with real-world skills. Top universities don’t just look at grades—they want students who can think critically, communicate confidently, and adapt globally. This is where strong English proficiency plays a key role, especially for international applicants. Preparing strategically through tools like an ielts online speaking test helps students refine fluency, pronunciation, and confidence, which are essential for interviews, classroom discussions, and presentations. Beyond test scores, engage in meaningful extracurriculars, research projects, or leadership roles that align with your intended major. These experiences demonstrate passion and long-term commitment. Most importantly, tell your story authentically—your personal statement should clearly reflect your goals, growth,…
Your tip for getting into an Ivy League university is really valuable! Planning ahead, maintaining strong academics, and exploring scholarships can make the journey smoother. Studying abroad not only provides access to top universities but also offers global exposure, diverse learning experiences, and enhanced career opportunities.
Along with academics, practical planning is important too. Students looking at the UK for higher studies may find student accommodation in Leicester helpful when arranging safe and convenient housing near their university.
My #1 tip to get into an Ivy League university is to build a strong academic profile backed by clear goals and real-world impact. Even if your path leads you elsewhere, universities like De Montfort University also value practical skills, research, and leadership.