Wow Factor

Good afternoon DeMarlo. I am happy that the Education Foundation article has guided you to the AADHE. Thank you so much for your kind words. You have come to the right place. It is true that getting into a great university takes more than just good grades. While maintaining good grades is important, you are correct that many of the top universities want students who are extraordinary and will bring something unique to their campus. Since you are not applying for college yet, you will not use the Wow Factor until your senior year and/or until you start the application process. However, I can provide you some helpful tips that can help you develop your Wow Factor and prepare for the college admissions process. Here is what I suggest:

• Extracurriculars: Participate in extracurriculars that are meaningful and unique. This would include things such as starting your own club, organization or business. Also, you could participate in extracurriculars that are not commonly done by students such as traveling abroad, charity work, unique sports, etc.

• Community Service: In connection to extracurriculars, participating in community service is another great way to impress colleges. Your participation in community service shows colleges how you are leaving a positive impact on your community and are acquainted with many different environments.

• Leadership: Get involved in leadership positions and opportunities in your school and community. You can develop leadership experience through your extracurriculars and life experience. This will show colleges that you have the ability to lead and impact others.

I hope that these tips are helpful and that they give you a better understanding on how you can impress colleges. I am glad to see that you want to prepare for the college admissions process early – doing so will definitely help you prepare for college in the long run. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out to me directly.

— Onyx Gaston

Hello again SeisscretJackson. Congrats again on making the decision to go back to school! You are making a wise decision. Regardless of when you apply for college, the Wow Factor can benefit you so do not worry. Your Wow Factor can be exhibited in your college application by highlighting your unique background and explaining how it has influenced you to pursue a particular field of study or career. Once you have done this, you will then explain why this makes you the best applicant. By integrating your Wow Factor into your college application, you can increase your chances of getting accepted into college.

Remember that it is never too late to go back to school. Many of the resources given to high school seniors are still available to high school graduates. Continue to stay encouraged and keep your goals high and in sight. Like I said in my previous post, pursuing higher education opens up so many opportunities. Kudos to you for taking the next step towards seizing those opportunities. I hope this helps. If you have any more questions, please feel free to contact me directly.

— Onyx Gaston