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What Colleges Are Really Looking for in Applicants 1. A rigorous high school curriculum that challenges the student and may include AP or IB classes. 2. Grades that represent strong effort and an upward trend. However, slightly lower grades in a rigorous program are preferred to all As in less challenging coursework. 3. Solid scores on standardized tests (SAT, ACT). These should be consistent with high school performance. 4. Passionate involvement in a few activities, demonstrating leadership and initiative. Depth, not breadth, of experience is most important. 5. Letters of recommendation from teachers and guidance counselor that give evidence of integrity, special skills, positive character traits, and an interest in learning. 6. A well-written essay that provides insight into the student’s unique personality, values, and goals. The application essay should be thoughtful and highly personal. It should demonstrate careful and well-constructed writing. 7. Special talents or experiences that will contribute to an interesting and well-rounded student body. 8. Demonstrated leadership in activities. Colleges want people who will arrive prepared and willing to take leadership of student activities and events. 9. Demonstrated intellectual curiosity through reading, school, leisure pursuits, and more. 10. Demonstrated enthusiasm to attend, often exhibited by campus visits and an interview, showing an interest toward attending the college. Independent Educational Consultants Association 3251 Old Lee Highway, Suite 510 Fairfax, Virginia 22030 703-591-4850  www.IECAonline.com  info@IECAonline.com Based on a Survey of IECA member consultants Top Ten Strengths and Experiences Colleges look for in High School Students

America is in a current state of crisis where its youth are choosing technology over nature and Xbox over a healthy lifestyle. Electronic companionship is becoming the norm.

  • The average child spends 35 hours a week in front of the television.
  • Less than 25% of school-aged children participate in daily physical activity.
  • Physical inactivity is the primary cause of a 10% increase in childhood obesity.
Students who do not participate in regular physical education or community recreation programs are far more likely to become inactive adults.
 
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Backpacker magazine's Jonathan Dorn spoke with Harry Smith on CBS's The Early Show about "The Best Cities to Raise an Outdoor Kid," an article created through a partnership between The Outdoor Foundation and Backpacker Magazine.Watch the video below.

http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=5219371n&tag=api

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Outdoor Nation is a next-gen movement to champion the outdoors.

 

Outdoor Education Program, Washington Adventure Camps, Oregon Environmental Programs, Community Service Ideas For High School