Pursuing Excellence: What It Takes to Get Into Harvard
The aspiration to gain admission to such prestigious institutions as Harvard often leads students to emulate the success stories of those who have already secured their place. However, what exactly does it take to get into Harvard? This article delves into various strategies, experiences, and characteristics that can contribute to such success. From legacy factors to scholarly accomplishments and extracurricular involvement, we explore the multifaceted journey of entering this renowned institution.
Academic Rigor and Legacy Factors
One commonality among students admitted to Harvard is their outstanding academic record and test scores. Perfect grades and test scores are essential, but they are not the only factors. Legacy students, those with a family history at Harvard, make up a significant portion of the admitted class. Here are five examples of tactics employed by students to gain admission:
Legacy Students
According to a Harvard Crimson survey, legacy students made up 36% of the Harvard Class of 2022. Being part of this legacy can give candidates an edge as the admissions process inherently values family connections to the university.
Extracurricular Activities and Leadership
Other students focus on building an impressive extracurricular profile. Proactive leadership in extra-curricular activities, such as winning international science competitions or leading a high-performing sports team, can help differentiate applicants. Personalized achievements and participation in diverse activities also play a crucial role.
Admissions Across Various Backgrounds
While certain academic standards are expected, what truly sets successful applicants apart is their passion and personal drive. Harvard Business School, for instance, emphasizes the importance of unwavering passion in whatever applicants do. The university admits students from diverse backgrounds who share a common trait of intense passion for their areas of expertise.
Remarkable Examples
A prime example is a story of a student who gained admission to Duke University. This individual's success was attributed to his impressive research internship experience and outstanding recommendation letters. These factors, combined with a strong academic record, can significantly enhance an application.
Prioritizing Personal Growth and Exploration
Many students are interested in gaining admission to specific schools without putting all their focus on just one. This approach allows them to engage in pre-university years with excitement and curiosity, exploring new interests and collaborating with peers. This balance is expected to continue throughout their college careers.
Potential Pitfalls
However, for some, following the pressure to prioritize the university brand over personal exploration, collaboration, and athletics can lead to a less fulfilling and less successful application. As a former scholar-athlete who has worked with many applicants, my advice is to focus on a well-rounded approach.
Building a Comprehensive Profile
Those aspiring to attend Harvard should be prepared to dedicate extensive time to their applications. A strong academic and extracurricular profile is crucial, but so is embodying leadership and a passion for one's domain. Here are some tips based on personal experience:
Extracurricular Involvement
Taking on extracurricular activities like writing for a newspaper (Indian Express), completing summer programs at prestigious institutions (LSE and ISB), and securing certifications (CFA Level 1) can showcase your ability to manage multiple projects effectively. Additionally, pursuing hobbies like scuba diving or yoga can reshape your personality and provide valuable life skills.
Leadership and Social Impact
Leadership roles and social impact initiatives, such as volunteering for the Chief Minister of Rajasthan, can also be pivotal. These experiences help build a strong character and offer unique insights that cannot be gained by studying alone.
Ultimately, the key to a successful application is to stand out with a passion-driven approach. By integrating academic rigor, extracurricular involvement, and a personal narrative of growth and leadership, applicants can increase their chances of gaining admission to Harvard.