Standing Out in a Crowded College Application Field

What makes you unique?

When preparing for your college applications, try to figure out what makes you unique as a person? Is there anything that might make you stand out from the crowd?


In today’s crowded world of college applications where literally tens of thousands of people can be competing for just a few spots, it can be hard to find ways to make yourself stand out. It might be helpful to figure out things that make you unique as a person and applicant.

Are you a world-famous musician? Have you created an app that has gone viral? Have you started a non-profit? You don’t need to have done these things to get accepted, but if you have, definitely be sure to emphasize such unique strengths.

But what if you aren’t an internationally-recognized scientist yet? Don’t worry! Try to think of things that set you apart from the crowd. Maybe you formed a club that has organized volunteers to help a good cause. Maybe you are an extremely passionate aspiring archaeologist who knows every type of dinosaur fossil ever.

Almost everyone who applies to top-tier schools does well academically. But aside from getting good grades, what makes you unique? If you can answer that question, it can help you make yourself stand out from the crowd when it comes to college applications.