Understanding Rejection and Revisiting Application Strategy

The experience of not getting into your preferred colleges with a GRE score of 308 can be disheartening. However, this is not the end of your journey. Let's break down the reasons behind your rejections and strategize for a successful spring application cycle in 2020.

Reflection and Analysis

It is crucial to introspect on various aspects of your application, including your test scores, essay quality, project experience, and timing. A 308 on the GRE is certainly on the lower side, and it could be a contributing factor to your rejections. However, there are other elements that could have influenced the outcome of your applications.

First, let's consider the essays. A compelling essay that highlights your strengths, aspirations, and unique qualities can significantly impact the decision. If your essays were not strong, they might have lacked the personal touch or were not reflective of your best self. Additionally, consider the scope of your projects. Have you actively contributed to impactful projects that demonstrate your skills and potential? If not, it might explain why your applications were not successful.

Timing and School Selection

Timing plays a crucial role in the application process. Submitting your applications too early or too late can have adverse effects. If you submitted your applications too early, it might have left you in a position where you were applying with incomplete information, or perhaps you were simply not knowledgeable enough about the schools and their requirements. On the other hand, if you submitted your applications too late, your strongest application might have been missed due to timelines.

Moreover, your school list should be carefully crafted. Each college requires a different set of qualities and experiences. If your school list was not well-suited to your profile, it might have negatively impacted your applications. It's important to have a balanced mix of safety, target, and reach schools that align with your background and aspirations.

Improving Your Profile or School List

At this point, you have two main options: to improve your profile or to adjust your school list. Improving your profile might involve taking steps to enhance your skills, gain more relevant experience, and refine your essays. A higher GRE score is certainly beneficial, but it's important to ensure that you also address the other components of your application.

On the other hand, if you believe that your profile is as strong as it can be, you might need to reconsider your school list. Match your school list to your profile. If you have a diverse and robust background, aim for schools that acknowledge your strengths and align with your career goals. Conversely, if your profile is more niche, look for schools that are well-suited to your specific interests and qualifications.

Preparation for Spring 2020

For those looking to apply in the spring of 2020, it's essential to start preparing early. Here are some steps you can follow to enhance your application:

Work on improving your GRE score if necessary, and focus on strategies to achieve the highest possible score. Strengthen your essays by getting feedback from mentors and peers to ensure they reflect your unique story. Participate in more projects and gain more practical experience that aligns with your academic and career goals. Research the schools you are interested in and make sure your application is tailored to each institution's specific requirements.

Remember, a strong application is a combination of numerous factors. By addressing each of these elements, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome. Good luck as you prepare for the spring application cycle!

A Final Word of Advice

For more guidance and support, I blog about college applications and provide tips for applicants. My blog can be a valuable resource as you navigate this process. If you need more assistance or have specific questions, feel free to reach out!